Hike San Marcos River, Mesquite Flats And Ottline Swamp Loop

The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.Wide gravel partly shaded trail that is well maintained. $3 / person over 12 (or free with a Texas State Park Pass) to enter the park.

Located about an hour north of San Antonio. The San Marcos River at Rio Vista Park in San Marcos, a short drive off from I-35. There are pretty trees for setting up your hammock or to have have a picnic in the shade. Rio Vista offers a small waterfall that you can slide down, flotation recommended for weak swimmers and younger children. Tubes/shuttle are available for rent, otherwise no entry f...

The Spring Lake Wetland Walk is a 0.7 mile loop hike located in The Meadows Center for Water and Environment. It's a great walk with a self-guided tour purposed for learning about the surrounding nature, wildlife, and invasive species. This area is not particularly great for exercising or anything along those lines but rather perfect for observing nature.  The trail features a boardwalk that s...

The Spring Lake Preserve Trail is a 4.3 mile loop trail located within the The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment in San Marcos, Texas. The hike offers beautiful and scenic lake views. It's perfect for families and those of all ages. There are a wide variety of nature and wildlife spotting opportunities. Note that especially in the spring the wildflowers grow along the trail shoulder ...

Park in the dirt lot off of Hunter Road (see map) to access the trail. Trail is open year round and is dog-friendly. 

Dante's, Lower Purgatory Creek and Blue Trail Loop is a 2.7 mile loop hike located in San Marcos, Texas. Located outside of downtown, it serves as a great nature trail for hiking, biking, and general exercise. It's primarily shaded and is a very moderate trail. It is not heavily trafficked, especially on weekdays. It is family- and dog-friendly, just be sure to clean up after your pup! During t...